Gisèle Pelicot, the French woman whose now ex-husband is on trial for drugging and raping her, and inviting dozens of other men to rape her, has taken the stand in court for the first time.
Gisèle told the court in Avignon she wants women who have been raped to know that “it’s not for us to have shame - it’s for them”.
“I want all women who have been raped to say: Madame Pelicot did it, I can too. I don’t want them to be ashamed any longer,” she said, referring to her request for an open trial and for the videos of the alleged rapes to be shown.
What a woman. Shining beacon, strong example and such fortitude. I hope she gets to live a long, happy life after this media circus is gone, she has done wonders for raps victims everywhere.
An amazing and brave woman. All credit to her.
Truly. It takes a lot of courage, compassion for others, and staying true to your values. I love this “If Madame Pelicot can do it, so can I.” 💪
Jesus fuck what an awful story.
Humans are capable of some dark shit.
At the same time, the strength of character and bravery she is showing is impressive and hopefully is inspiring to other victims.
I would argue humans are the only creatures capable of dark shit. Well, maybe dolphins too.
This woman is such a tough mofo.
Elle est forte. Quelle belle action d’essayer d’améliorer la situation.
You’re right.
(This isn’t relevant to the article, but I’ve been slowly learning French, and based on context I understood what you said, that’s so exciting!!)
Shit sorry my brain assumed I was in a Francophone community
Liberté, Egalité, Beyoncé
You’re fine. That’s why I like the internet. It doesn’t always have to be English.
Nah, it’s fine!
I was also happy my French was good enough for me to understand, because it means I haven’t forgotten it all!
Bravo ! Continue comme ça. C’est dur d’apprendre une nouvelle langue et je crois comprendre que le français est particulièrement difficile.
Merci ! I think the only reason reading it is far easier is because I took latin in highschool. Some verbal communication I can pick up, and my pronunciation is absolutely horrendous still.
No problem. My pronunciation in English is not perfect either but way better than 10 years ago because I keep practicing. Though I’m lucky to work with English speakers so I can speak it everyday.
I completely agree. She’s an icon of strength.
How can someone do something this vile to their own partner? That man’s brain needs to be dissected and studied.
You haven’t heard of Joël Le Scouarnec yet.
I don’t know who that is and I would like it to be that way 😶
It really is amazing how much strength and resilience this person has. She’s become offended and demands change rather than wallow in the pain.
Hopeing this will lead to consent laws in France like the ones in Scandinavia. Then at least one good thing will come of this horrible story.
Brave woman!
Que de courage et de résilience de la part de cette personne!
Je souhaite que ses agresseurs souffrent.
The other men’s defense is outright infuriating. “I didn’t know she was unconscious?” how many red flags need to go off in your head before you ask questions!? If you don’t get explicit consent from anyone you are about to have sex with, just keep it in your pants. This went on for years! So seemingly God knows how many men just ignored common sense and now (rightfully so) will be spending years locked away from society.
